DIPLOMACY: A Borb

Ever since Generalissimo Francisco Franco named Juan Carlos de
Borbón y Borbón as his eventual successor 18 months ago,
the tall, athletic prince has played the role of silent backstop to the aging
dictator with uncommon aplomb and discretion. Because Franco is
sensitive about his height (5 ft. 3 in.), Juan Carlos (6 ft. 2 in.) always
stays well to the rear and off to the side of the Caudillo when they must
stand together. At sitdown occasions, the problem is solved by elevating
Franco's seat to raise him ever so slightly...